Membership Registration
JUNE 2025 – MAY 2026
Behind every piece of produce are countless people who helped along the way – the skilled hands, sharp minds, and big hearts that comprise a critical industry in our country. SEPC brings these worlds together. Because together, we create a strong, vibrant industry now and for decades to come.
TOGETHER WE GROW HIGHER!
Please review the updated membership information on our website, including restructured membership tiers, and select which annual membership* best suits your company's needs. Once your current membership status is confirmed, then you'll be able to register for our events.
*Note that our annual membership period runs June through May of the following year. We do not prorate our membership fees. Contact our office if unsure of current membership status.
**All conference attendees are required to be SEPC members in order to attend any events. SEPC conferences have their own registration and fees. Exhibitors are required to maintain a corporate membership.**
Our Sponsors
SEPC sponsors are a vital part of our existence. Simply put, sponsor contributions help us bring more to the table for everyone. Like better networking and education events, fresh talent, and a broader awareness of best practices throughout our industry. And of course, when you help us promote produce, your organization will gain crucial exposure at our events and engagements throughout the year.
Together We Grow Higher!
AUGUST LEVEL SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT
NEW SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
SEPC is now offering sponsorship opportunities exclusive to driving our educational programs that are the best in class for our industry. With different tiers available, you can contribute to the future education of our next generation of produce professionals. Visit our website to learn more about the innovative ways through which you can support the future of our industry:
THANK YOU TO OUR 2025-2026 FUTURE OF INDUSTRY SPONSORS!
HEAR YE, HEAR YE!
Prepare to embark upon a grand exploration of the freshest innovations within our industry, as we unveil a regal array of new products and cutting-edge technologies to elevate the marketplace. Join us at our esteemed annual tradeshow and conference, where we shall showcase the latest breakthroughs in the realm of fresh produce—spanning organics, groundbreaking product developments, forward-thinking technologies, and pioneering brand strategies.
Be enlightened by distinguished industry leaders during our educational sessions, tailored to help you ascend within an ever-competitive landscape. Gain invaluable, data-driven insights that will empower you to strengthen your brand and elevate your business to new heights. And, as is our tradition, indulge in the warm embrace of Southern hospitality as you mingle with peers and colleagues, fostering connections in an atmosphere of camaraderie and innovation.
👑 ROYAL ADVENTURES AWAIT👑
Step into the Queen City and rule your Southern Innovations experience with an activity fit for royalty—happening Wednesday, September 10th! Whether you're swinging on the greens, smashing pickleballs, touring like a local, or aiming for the perfect clay shot, this is your moment to choose how you'll reign supreme. These curated adventures offer the perfect way to connect, unwind, and enjoy the royal treatment before the main events begin.
SEPC HERALDS SPEAKER LINEUP FIT FOR A QUEEN!
The following esteemed speakers shall surely stir the hearts of all, bringing forth mighty strength to SEPC’s noble endeavors:
Educational Session
Sustainability: It's Good for Business
Moderator
Kieran McNeice
Kieran McNeice is the Director of Sustainability Programs at Measure to Improve. Her role at MTI includes designing and implementing sustainability programs that are tailored to each client's unique goals and maximize their positive impact. Her knack for training and communication helps her translate complex sustainability topics into user-friendly resources for MTI’s clients. Kieran holds an MBA in Global Impact Management and an MA in International Environmental Policy from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies. She received her undergraduate degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Vermont. In addition to her work in fresh produce over the last 8 years, Kieran is also an active member of her local fiber arts community in Philadelphia, leading sessions on the intersection of sustainability and craft.
Panelist
Jana Fischback
Jana Fischback leads sustainability at Stemilt Growers, a leading tree fruit company in Washington state. She works to reduce emissions, conserve resources, and integrate sustainability across the company. Before joining the ag industry, she helped launch environmental programs at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and Metro Parks Tacoma. She later served as Executive Director of a rural Washington nonprofit she co-founded to promote sustainable living. Jana is passionate about making sustainability practical, measurable, and valuable to the business.
Panelist
Justin LaCroix
Justin LaCroix is a leader in sustainable retail with over 19 years of experience in the grocery industry. He manages sustainable operations efforts for Ahold Delhaize USA - the largest grocery retail group on the East Coast - with a passionate focus on driving climate impact and food waste reduction. Justin is also the health & sustainability lead for Food Lion - one of Ahold Delhaize USA's five local retail brands. Justin holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental management and an MBA with a sustainability concentration. Justin lives in North Carolina with his wife, Jenna, and dog, Bradie.
Panelist
Jonathan Quinn
Jonathan Quinn is President & CEO of US Plastics Pact. He brings more than 15 years of expertise and industry knowledge to the organization. His lifelong dedication to and leadership in plastic packaging, combined with his strong advocacy for a circular economy in plastics, drives his efforts toward the pivotal mission of the US pact. Quinn is acknowledged as an authority in many areas of plastic packaging and has been recognized as an industry leader by Plastics News, Waste360, and other media and associations. Moreover, he has conducted extensive consumer insight research on the packaged goods sector and consumer perceptions of packaging materials.
Panelist
Tyler Simmons
Tyler Simmons is the VP of Revenue at Flashfood, a marketplace app that helps consumers save money on fresh food while reducing grocery store waste. He leads the company’s growth across North America, positioning Flashfood as a key partner for grocers seeking in-store innovation and customer acquisition solutions. With over 15 years of experience, Tyler has led sales and go-to-market teams in the U.S. and internationally. He previously led business development at Bowery Farming and enterprise sales at Too Good To Go, both focused on reducing food waste. Outside the food sector, he spent 5+ years at Foursquare, including time as Managing Director for APAC based in Singapore. Tyler lives in Manhattan with his wife and young son.
Presenter
Anne-Marie Roerink
Anne-Marie Roerink is the President of 210 Analytics, LLC. Working closely with retailers, wholesalers, grower/shippers and trade associations, Anne-Marie has developed an excellent perspective on the ever-changing wants and needs of the produce consumer in a one-size-fits-no-one world. She understands the challenges and opportunities in the food and produce business today as well as the drivers of success tomorrow. Prior to founding 210 Analytics, Anne-Marie was the Head of Research for the FMI. She designs and authors the annual Power of Produce study and monthly performance reports, along with similar studies in meat, deli, frozen, bakery and other categories.
Southern Roots Women’s Luncheon Speaker
Dr. Jaime Kulaga
Dr. Jaime Kulaga is a licensed mental health counselor & life coach, entrepreneur, author, motivational speaker, mother and wife. She is a frequent mental health expert on national TV, radio and print media for her expertise in work-life balance. Dr. Jaime has taught and worked with thousands of people empowering them to overcome barriers, discover their own greatness, and in turn, create a loving and gratifying environment for both themselves and all those in their lives. Through teaching at the university level, coaching and counseling individuals, couples, businesses and students, she educates women, men and families to make better lifestyle decisions, steer the course of their lives, and use practical tools for overall health and success. Dr. Jaime is the Author of the International book The SuperWoman’s Guide to Super Fulfillment: Step by Step Strategies to Create Work-Life Balance named one of the best work life balance books of all time according to Book Authority. Her book has been translated and published in over 30 countries. With her engaging personality, sense of humor and tone, audiences are inspired and motivated to use the content in order to enhance their lives and find overall life happiness and fulfillment.
Good Seeds MENtor Program Speaker
Justin Forsett
Justin’s personal journey is one of the best stories in the NFL. Former NFL running back Justin Forsett was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2008 and played for seven teams in nine years, including the 2014 Pro Bowl with the Baltimore Ravens. Known for his speed and agility on the field, he is now a respected leader and businessman off the field. And as an award-winning speaker, he shares his stories of sacrifice, setbacks, and success. A Florida native, Justin was determined to play in the NFL. Despite his 5'8" stature, he broke several high school records and earned a college scholarship to Cal where, as a senior, he was named to the First-team All-Pac-10 Conference. Justin retired from the NFL in 2017 and moved from the backfield to the boardroom. The company he co-founded with college teammates even appeared on ABC's Shark Tank. Although they didn’t get a deal, they used the feedback to rename, rebrand, and relaunch their company. Now known as Hustle Clean, and with Justin as CEO, this multi-million-dollar wellness company sells all-natural body wipes and personal care products online and at major retailers.
Keynote Speaker
Erik Qualman
#1 Best Selling Author and Keynote Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in 55 countries and reached 50 million people. His Socialnomics work has been on 60 Minutes to the Wall Street Journal and used by the National Guard to NASA. His book Digital Leader propelled him to be voted the 2nd Most Likeable Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series. What Happens in Vegas Stays on YouTube helped Qualman be listed by Forbes and Fortune as a Top 100 Digital Influencer. His business books are used in over 200 universities, and he has received an honorary doctorate for his groundbreaking work. His latest book, The Focus Project, is a guide to pursuing less in order to achieve more. Qualman was formerly a sitting professor at Harvard & MIT’s edX labs.
Deadlines to Note
- July 11, 2025: Final date to receive refund for exhibitor booth and Wall of Innovations showcase.
- August 1, 2025: Final date to reserve hotel rooms within the SEPC room blocks. Any rooms cancelled after this date will result in a one night's room charge.
- August 8, 2025: Final date for retail or foodservice attendees to request complimentary hotel and airfare through SEPC registration.
- August 15, 2025: Final date for all attendees to receive refund for conference and session registration (does not include exhibitor booth or Wall of Innovation fees).
- August 29, 2025: Final date to receive checks in the SEPC office
- September 5, 2025: Final date for ACH payments to be posted to the SEPC account. Only payments via credit card will be accepted after this date.
Southern Innovations Exhibitors
SOLD OUT EXHIBIT SPACE!
EXHIBITOR BOOTH ASSIGNMENTS
We’ve added the exhibitor booth assignment list as well as the expo floorplan to our Southern Innovations website. Access either through the Southern Innovations registration site by selecting EXHIBITORS from the menu at the top of the page:
OR through the SEPC website by selecting the EXHIBITORS tab of the accordion menu on our Southern Innovations page:
EXHIBITOR TOOLKIT
Through our valued partnership with AGS Expo Services, the exhibitor toolkit information is now available! Your Welcome to Online Ordering email from eventservices@ags-expo.com will provide access to your online hub and exhibitor kit. We’ve also added the exhibitor toolkit to our Southern Innovations websites.
Sampling Guidelines
The Food and Beverage Sample Distribution Request form within the Exhibitor Toolkit must be completed and submitted to the convention center contact as listed on the form in advance of any food or beverage samples being served. Food Sampling Guidelines are also included within the kit.
DIGITAL TOOLKIT
The SEPC is pleased to provide you with our newest digital toolkit. We hope you will take advantage of these digital tools available for you as you prepare to join us in Charlotte for Southern Innovations!
SEPC Summer Board Meeting
The Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) held its annual Summer Board Meeting from July 21–23 in Charlotte, North Carolina — the same vibrant city set to host Southern Innovations in less than two months.
The meeting brought together SEPC’s Board of Directors, Board of Governors, Board Ambassadors, and staff to engage in meaningful discussions centered on the Council’s strategic anchors and long-term goals. With a strong emphasis on future growth and sustainability, the SEPC Executive Committee and Board of Directors focused on key strategic planning efforts to ensure the continued success of the Council.
Board members actively participated in roundtable sessions, exchanging insights and ideas aimed at “futureproofing” SEPC through collaborative strategy development and tactical planning.
SEPC looks forward to sharing updates and rolling out these strategic initiatives, reinforcing its mission to support the produce industry through education, innovation, and community.
As part of our SEPC Cares commitment to giving back, we are seeking support for our Good Seeds Buckets and Strong Roots, Strong Heart initiatives. These bags and buckets are filled with essential items for the homeless, and your support will have a meaningful impact on those in need.
In appreciation of your generosity, we will send you a copy of our new book, For the Love of Produce - Southeast Produce Council's Culture and Spirit, which features personal stories and experiences from our members.
We encourage you to join us in making a difference in our community—because Together, We Grow Higher!
Community Updates
Our featured charitable partner for August is Bridge the Gap Ministries whose mission is to provide a safe, supportive, Christ-centered environment for men and women who struggle with life-controlling issues. SEPC partners with Bridge the Gap to reach people with the life changing Gospel, while educating their men and women on the importance and benefits of eating fresh produce during their recovery and long after….Leading to a long, healthy life.
Here are some photos of our guys working at Grace Farms garden. They really love it there. Besides working around garden and animals, Miss Bonnie does a daily devotion with them. Next year we will be putting a garden on our property.
A heartfelt thank you to SEPC for your continued generosity. Thanks to your support, we raised $336,590 in support of our mission and the children in our care. Your involvement truly motivates and inspires community giving. We couldn’t have done it without you. ~ Sarah Zambroni, Sr. Director of Development, Palmer Home for Children
🎒✨Back to School Bash Brings Smiles and Supplies! ✨🎒
We’re excited to share a quick update from the recent Back to School Bash event attended by our Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children committee.
The team did an incredible job engaging children and families with a fun spinning wheel game, bringing lots of laughter and excitement to the day!
Thanks to generous donations, they were also able to distribute school supplies to every child, helping them start the school year with confidence and support. 📚🖍️
A huge thank you to our volunteers and supporters who made this event such a meaningful success!
Nina Viola Ponce, Farm Direct Supply
Elecia Sullivan, Fruitist
Jordan Carter, Leger & Son, Inc.
Kim Flores, Pro Citrus Network, Inc.
Mike Schiappa, Sierra Produce
Kelly Stainner, Society of St. Andrew - Florida
Tara Saldana, Sugar Foods
Megan McKenna, National Watermelon Promotion Board
SEPC Board Volunteers at Catherine's House
Huge thanks to the Southeast Produce Council members! We’re so grateful to the amazing members of the Southeast Produce Council who volunteered their time and energy at Catherine’s House! Despite the heat, they rolled up their sleeves and helped with painting and deep cleaning, making a beautiful difference for our residents. Your kindness, hard work, and generous spirit truly brighten our mission. Thank you for helping us create a more welcoming and refreshed space! ~ Catherine's House | catherineshouseinc.org
To learn more about SEPC Cares and how you can join the Southeast Produce Council in giving back to the community by educating others about the benefits of healthy eating and habits, click the link below.
Nolan Family Foundation Scholarship
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2025 NOLAN FAMILY FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT!
Johnathon Rocendo
son of Mayra Arvizu | Mack Farms
Johnathon will receive a one-time scholarship of $5,000 to their enrolling college/university. The scholarship will be awarded based on GPA (3.0 or higher), references, and quality of essay.
Visit our website for more scholarship information!
Congratulations to Adam Brady of Shuman Farms for being the first to answer our July SEPC Fruit & Veggie Trivia Question correctly!
August Trivia Question
Be the first to answer correctly and win a $25 gift card!
This looks like a white version of its smaller relative, the carrot, but has a sweeter taste. Which root vegetable is this?
Onion
Garlic
Potato
Parsnip
Contact Us!
242 North Masonic Street | Millen, GA 30442 | 877.720.SEPC (7372) | info@seproducecouncil.com